The Telegram & Gazette reports that Susan Johnson made the plea at her arraignment Wednesday in Worcester (WUH'-ster) Superior Court. She faces a variety of charges including armed assault with intent to murder and attempted murder. She was ordered held on $100,000 bail.

Prosecutors say the 39-year-old attacked the child in an apartment complex's laundry room in Gardner, about 70 miles northwest of Boston.

Authorities says she also tried to strangle the girl with a dryer's electrical cord.

Her lawyer says Johnson has a history of mental illness. She is scheduled back in court July 21.